# Embassy of China in the Maldives _Resident diplomatic mission of the People's Republic of China in Malé_ - Type: Diplomatic mission - Also known as: Chinese Embassy in the Maldives, Embassy of the PRC in Malé, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Malé, Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives - Website: http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/ - Last reviewed: 2026-10-19 The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives is Beijing's resident diplomatic mission in Malé, opened on 8 November 2011 after 39 years of non-resident representation from Colombo. It coordinates bilateral political relations, Belt and Road Initiative infrastructure lending through Chinese policy and commercial banks, non-repayable grant aid, trade and RMB settlement frameworks, and consular affairs. ## Key facts - Bilateral debt exposure: Official Ministry of Finance and President's Office records place disbursed and contracted Chinese loans at USD 1.4–1.5 billion (40–45% of external public debt), while former President Mohamed Nasheed claimed USD 3.1 billion including contingent liabilities. - Free Trade tariff elimination: Signed in December 2017 under President Yameen and brought into force on 1 January 2025 under President Muizzu, eliminating tariffs on 91.1% of Maldivian export lines (296 seafood categories) and 70.3% of Chinese imports. (as of 2025-01-01) - Strategic summit agreements: Twenty bilateral agreements and MoUs exchanged during the January 2024 state visit to Beijing elevating ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership. (as of 2024-01-11) - Annual Chinese tourist arrivals: Mainland China returned as the Maldives' single largest tourist source market, reaching 280,000 visitors by 15 September 2026 (up 13% year-on-year). (as of 2026-09-15) - Housing capacity claim: The embassy states that Chinese contractors have built more than 11,000 social and commercial housing units across the Maldives, with a further 2,414 Bank of Maldives-commissioned units breaking ground in March 2026. - Current head of mission: Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Kong Xianhua, fifth resident Chinese Ambassador in Malé, arrived on 26 April 2025. (as of 2026-10-19) - Financial institutions & settlement partners: Export-Import Bank of China, Concessional loans; Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Guaranteed credit; China Development Bank, Policy finance; Bank of Maldives, RMB settlement - Primary state engineering contractors: Includes Beijing Urban Construction Group, China Harbour Engineering Company, China Machinery Engineering Corporation, and China State Construction - Chancery seat and island address: H. Nookurikeela, Dhunbugas Magu, Henveiru, Malé, Republic of Maldives (resident mission opened 8 November 2011). ## Chinese assistance across Maldivian political administrations _Select a Maldivian presidential administration on the interactive timeline—or use the arrow keys—to drill down into bilateral diplomatic posture, loan commitments, grants, and controversies under each government._ **Contracted Chinese sovereign & state-guaranteed loans by Maldivian administration** Figures represent major disclosed sovereign and sovereign-guaranteed loan commitments contracted during each administration, excluding non-repayable grants. Calculations by Good Morning Maldives (GMM). - Gayoom (1978–2008): ~USD 15m. Predominantly non-repayable grants (National Museum, Foreign Ministry building, early Sinamalé flats) and small interest-free credit lines. - Nasheed (2008–2012): ~USD 150m. First Export-Import Bank of China sovereign concessional loan signed in 2010 for 1,000 Hulhumalé Phase I housing units (CMEC). - Waheed (2012–2013): USD 156m. China Eximbank concessional facility for 1,500 Phase II outer-island housing units across nine southern islands (CMEC). - Yameen (2013–2018): USD 1,082m+. Peak BRI borrowing: VIA expansion (USD 373m), Sinamalé Bridge loan tranche (USD 72m), Hiyaa 7,000 units ICBC guarantee (USD 437m), Sun Siyam guarantee (USD 127.5m), and Fifth Power loan (~USD 72m). - Solih (2018–2023): USD 0m new (DSSI pause). No new Chinese sovereign infrastructure loans contracted; Beijing suspended debt service on ~USD 600m in direct sovereign loans under the 2020 G20 DSSI. - Muizzu (2023–2026): USD 0m new (Grant & RMB pivot). Shift from sovereign debt to non-repayable PRC grants (Villimalé 112-bed hospital, Malé–Villimalé roads, council buildings), debt-relief talks, and Bank of Maldives domestically financed EPC housing. **Comparative grading of Chinese engagement by Maldivian presidential administration** - Ibrahim Nasir (1972–1978) & Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (1978–2008): Diplomatic relations established on 14 October 1972 with non-resident accreditation from Colombo. Economic and technical cooperation began in 1981 and remained modest, non-aligned, and grant-led for three decades.. Mode: Non-repayable grants and technical aid. Flagships: Sinamalé municipal flats, National Museum, Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, and post-2004 tsunami housing. Controversies: None recorded. - Mohamed Nasheed (Nov 2008 – Feb 2012, MDP): Opened the Maldives' first sovereign borrowing relationship with the Export-Import Bank of China in 2010 and welcomed the opening of China's permanent resident embassy in Malé on 8 November 2011 under Ambassador Yu Hongyao.. Mode: Concessional policy-bank housing credit. Flagship: 1,000 social housing units in Hulhumalé Phase I (CMEC). Controversies: Nasheed later became the foremost critic of post-2013 Chinese lending. - Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan (Feb 2012 – Nov 2013, GIP): Deepened cooperation with the newly established Malé chancery following the February 2012 transfer of power, extending China Eximbank concessional housing loans to the southern atolls.. Mode: Sovereign concessional loans. Flagship: 1,500 outer-island housing units Phase II across 9 islands in 5 atolls (Addu, GDh. Gadhdhoo) by CMEC. - Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom (Nov 2013 – Nov 2018, PPM): Hosted President Xi Jinping in September 2014, joined the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and established a 'Future-Oriented All-Round Friendly and Cooperative Partnership' under Ambassadors Wang Fukang and Zhang Lizhong.. Mode: Large-scale sovereign loans, ICBC/Eximbank sovereign guarantees, and blended grant-loan mega-projects. Flagships: Sinamalé Bridge (USD 200m), VIA runway/fuel farm (USD 373m), Hiyaa 7,000 flats (USD 437m), Laamu Link Road. Controversies: Disputed debt stock, 2015 land amendment, 50-year Feydhoo Finolhu lease (USD 4m), 2017 Makunudhoo station, and rushed 2017 FTA. - Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Nov 2018 – Nov 2023, MDP): Rebalanced foreign policy toward New Delhi while maintaining working infrastructure and debt-relief relations with Ambassadors Zhang Lizhong and Wang Lixin.. Mode: Zero new sovereign mega-loans; G20 DSSI suspension on ~USD 600m direct debt; completion of legacy works. Flagships completed: Hiyaa 7,000 towers (2020–21), VIA code-4F runway (Oct 2022), 5-island desalination grid. Controversies: Cancelled Makunudhoo ocean station (June 2019), shelved 2017 FTA, and disputed USD 1.4B vs. USD 3.1B debt audit. - Dr Mohamed Muizzu (Nov 2023 – present, PNC): Upgraded relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership during the January 2024 Beijing state visit and expanded economic, agricultural, and defence ties under Ambassadors Wang Lixin and Kong Xianhua.. Mode: Non-repayable PRC grants, bilateral debt-relief/refinancing talks, FTA tariff elimination, RMB settlement, and BML-financed EPC contracts. Flagships: Villimalé 112-bed hospital, Malé–Villimalé roads, 2,414 BML Hulhumalé housing units, Hanimaadhoo pest center, Noonu LAVA project. Controversies: Feb 2024 Xiang Yang Hong 03 port call, Mar 2024 military pact, and FTA customs-revenue debate. ## Chinese lending, debt stock, and credit facilities _Loans from the Export-Import Bank of China, China Development Bank, and ICBC financed the Maldives' largest transport and housing projects between 2010 and 2020, leaving China as the country's largest bilateral creditor amid IMF and World Bank warnings of high debt distress._ **Headline bilateral debt and financing metrics** Combined sovereign guarantee total (USD 437m + USD 127.5m = USD 564.5m) based on Ministry of Finance disclosures reported in 2020. Calculations by Good Morning Maldives (GMM). - Official recorded sovereign & guaranteed Chinese loan exposure - Chinese share of Maldivian external public and publicly guaranteed debt - Direct government-to-government debt covered by 2020 G20 DSSI suspension - Disclosed sovereign guarantees (USD 437m Hiyaa ICBC + USD 127.5m Sun Siyam) **Competing estimates of Maldivian debt owed to Chinese lenders** Bar lengths are in USD millions. IMF Article IV consultations in 2024 and 2026 and the World Bank's October 2025 Maldives Development Update classify the Maldives at high risk of external and overall debt distress. - G20 DSSI eligible direct sovereign subset (2020): Direct government-to-government concessional loans covered by China's 2020 temporary repayment suspension, excluding sovereign-guaranteed SOE and private debt.. USD 600 million - Ministry of Finance recorded exposure (2020): Disbursed sovereign loans plus state-guaranteed loans to state-owned enterprises and private borrowers recorded by the Ministry of Finance.. USD 1.4 billion - President's Office total contracted loans (2020): Total contracted loan commitments from China Eximbank, ICBC, and China Development Bank cited by the President's Office (~45% of external national debt).. USD 1.5 billion - Former President Mohamed Nasheed estimate (2018–2020): Public claim aggregating direct sovereign debt, state-owned enterprise engineering contracts, and private resort loans carrying sovereign guarantees.. USD 3.1 billion **Major disclosed Chinese loan commitments by project facility** Excludes smaller buyer's-credit facilities whose individual loan values are not separately itemized in public embassy press releases. - 2010 Housing Ph I: ~USD 150m. First China Eximbank sovereign concessional loan for 1,000 Hulhumalé Phase I social housing units built by CMEC under the Nasheed administration. - 2012 Housing Ph II: USD 156m. 1,500 outer-island housing units contracted to CMEC under a China Eximbank concessional facility during the Waheed administration. - 2015 VIA Expansion: USD 373m. China Eximbank concessional loan for Velana International Airport's 3,400m code-4F runway, fuel farm, and cargo complex built by BUCG. - 2015–16 Bridge Loan: USD 72m. Concessional loan component of the USD 200m Sinamalé Bridge (alongside a USD 116m Chinese grant and USD 12m Maldivian state funding). - 2017 Hiyaa Housing: USD 437m. Sovereign-guaranteed commercial loan from Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) to HDC for 7,000 apartments (16 towers of 25 storeys) built by CSCEC. - 2017 Sun Siyam Guarantee: USD 127m. Sovereign guarantee issued by the Maldivian state backing a China Eximbank loan to private company Ahmed Siyam Holdings for resort development. **Consolidated register of Chinese loan-financed infrastructure by sector** - Aviation: Velana International Airport (VIA) Code-4F Runway, Fuel Farm & Cargo Terminal: Concessional loan of USD 373 million approved in December 2015 following the 2014 Belt and Road framework agreement. Funded reclamation of 62 hectares of land, a 3,400-metre by 60-metre code-4F runway capable of handling Airbus A380 aircraft, a 45,000-tonne aviation fuel farm, and a modern cargo terminal complex designed to raise annual passenger capacity from 4.3 million to 8.57 million.. Lender: Export-Import Bank of China. Contractor: Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG). Administration: Contracted under Yameen (2015); runway commissioned under Solih (6 October 2022). - Transport: China–Maldives Friendship Bridge (Sinamalé Bridge) Loan Tranche: A 2.0-kilometre cross-sea bridge (1.39 km main span) linking Malé, Hulhulé airport island, and Hulhumalé across deep coral-reef channels. Of the USD 200 million project cost, USD 72 million was financed via a concessional loan from China Eximbank, USD 116 million via a non-repayable Chinese government grant, and USD 12 million from the Maldivian state budget.. Lender: Export-Import Bank of China. Lead contractor: CCCC Second Harbor Engineering Co. / China Harbour Engineering Co. (CHEC). Administration: Contracted and delivered under Yameen (opened 30 August 2018). - Urban Housing: Hulhumalé Phase II 'Hiyaa' 7,000 Social Housing Units: Construction of 16 twenty-five-storey residential towers providing 7,000 social housing flats in Hulhumalé Phase II. Financed through a sovereign-guaranteed commercial loan of roughly USD 434–437 million issued to the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). Because the loan was commercial and carried a sovereign guarantee rather than direct government-to-government concessional terms, it was excluded from the 2020 G20 DSSI repayment suspension.. Lender: Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). Contractor: China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC). Administration: Contracted under Yameen (2017); handed over under Solih (2020–2021). - Outer-Atoll & Phase I Housing: Hulhumalé Phase I (1,000 Units) and Phase II Outer-Island Housing (1,500 Units): China Eximbank's first sovereign loan to the Maldives in 2010 funded 1,000 social housing apartments in Hulhumalé Phase I. A second concessional facility signed in 2012 funded 1,500 housing units across nine southern islands in five atolls, including 312 units in Addu Atoll (Hithadhoo and Hulhumeedhoo) and 50 units in GDh. Gadhdhoo, alongside power-grid upgrades.. Lender: Export-Import Bank of China. Contractor: China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC). Administrations: Contracted under Nasheed (2010) and Waheed (2012); completed across 2012–2022. - Private Resort Credit with Sovereign Guarantee: Sun Siyam Loan Facility: A USD 127.5 million loan facility extended to Ahmed Siyam Holdings for tourist resort development, backed by a sovereign guarantee from the Maldivian Ministry of Finance under the Yameen administration. In July–September 2020, lenders briefly issued a repayment notice during COVID-19 resort closures before restructuring discussions resumed.. Lender: Export-Import Bank of China (with sovereign guarantee from the Government of Maldives). Administration: Guaranteed under Yameen (2017); restructured during Solih tenure (2020). - Debt Restructuring & Refinancing: 2020 G20 DSSI Suspension and 2025–2026 Bilateral Debt Relief: In June 2020, Beijing agreed to suspend debt service on approximately USD 600 million in direct sovereign loans under the G20 DSSI framework. Following the January 2024 state visit and IMF warnings of external debt service peaks in 2025–2026, Ambassador Kong Xianhua stated in September 2026 that China and the Maldives were working steadily on bilateral debt-relief and refinancing arrangements alongside new Chinese yuan (CNY) settlement channels at the Bank of Maldives.. Counterparties: Ministry of Finance (Maldives), China Eximbank, ICBC, China Development Bank, and Bank of Maldives. Administrations: 2020 DSSI under Solih; 2025–2026 refinancing under Muizzu. ## Grants, technical assistance, and commercial EPC pipeline _Alongside policy-bank loans, Beijing funds non-repayable grant projects through China's foreign-aid budget—and since 2024 has shifted new flagship commitments toward grant-aided healthcare, municipal roads, climate-resilient agriculture, and domestically financed housing EPC contracts._ **Sinamalé Bridge (China–Maldives Friendship Bridge) USD 200 million funding split** - China non-repayable grant: USD 116m (58%) - China Eximbank concessional loan: USD 72m (36%) - Maldives state budget: USD 12m (6%) - 58% non-repayable grant threshold (USD 116m): The USD 200 million Sinamalé Bridge blended grant and loan financing: more than half (58%, or USD 116 million) was delivered as a non-repayable grant from the Chinese government, 36% (USD 72 million) as a China Eximbank concessional loan at 2% interest, and 6% (USD 12 million) from the Maldivian state budget. Subsequent maintenance and technical inspection phases have also been covered by Chinese grant agreements. **Chinese vs. Maldivian financing and equity splits across four project models** - Grant-Aided Infrastructure (Villimalé 112-Bed Hospital, Laamu Link Road, Malé–Villimalé Roads & 5-Island Desalination): 100. Government of the Maldives (0% debt repayment; land & local clearances provided by Malé). 100% funded through non-repayable People's Republic of China foreign-aid grants. - China–Maldives Friendship Bridge (Sinamalé Bridge Blended Grant + Concessional Loan): 94. Maldives State Budget (6% / USD 12m direct contribution). China provided 94% of total project financing (58% grant + 36% Eximbank concessional loan); the Maldivian treasury contributed 6% (USD 12m). Calculations by Good Morning Maldives (GMM). - Kunaavashi Island Resort 50-Year Concession (CJL Investment Joint Venture): 50. Maldivian joint-venture partner (with Guangdong Beta Oceans). Commercial joint venture between Chinese developer Guangdong Beta Oceans and a Maldivian partner holding a 50-year resort lease in Vaavu Atoll. - 2026 Hulhumalé Phase II 2,414 Subsidized Housing Units (CMEC & BUCG EPC Contracts): 0. Bank of Maldives (BML) (100% domestic financing; Chinese SOEs act as EPC contractors). Unlike 2010–2017 Chinese loan-funded housing, the March 2026 Hulhumalé housing projects are 100% financed by the Bank of Maldives and constructed under commercial EPC contracts by CMEC and BUCG. **Consolidated register of Chinese grants, technical assistance, and commercial EPC works** - Health & Medical: China–Maldives Friendship Hospital in Villimalé (112 Beds): Flagship grant project agreed during the January 2024 Beijing summit. Covers a 12,890-square-metre, 112-bed tertiary hospital on Villimalé (Ward 5 of Malé City) with outpatient, emergency, diagnostic, inpatient, and administrative departments, plus medical equipment and furnishings. Complemented by rotating Chinese ophthalmic medical teams ('Bright Journey' cataract surgeries at Hulhumalé Hospital) and donated mobile eye-clinic equipment.. Instrument: Non-repayable PRC government grant (Muizzu administration). Implementation agreement signed 19 January 2026 by Counsellor Zhang Xu and Minister Abdulla Muththalib; bidding stage in September 2026 with construction scheduled for early 2027. - Municipal Roads & Transport: Laamu Link Road (2016) and Malé–Villimalé Road Redevelopment (2025–2027): On 10 October 2016, China completed the grant-aided 14.9-kilometre Laamu Link Road connecting Fonadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Maandhoo, and Gan in Laamu Atoll. On 23 October 2025, Ambassador Kong Xianhua and Minister Abdulla Muththalib signed Letters of Exchange for the China-aid Malé and Villimalé Streets Redevelopment Project, upgrading urban drainage, utility networks, and road surfaces across the capital and Villimalé.. Instrument: Non-repayable PRC government grants. Laamu Link Road delivered October 2016 (Yameen administration); Malé–Villimalé road redevelopment in design phase in September 2026 (Muizzu administration), with physical works scheduled to start in early 2027. - Clean Water & Energy: Five-Island Micro-Grid Seawater Desalination Plants: Grant-aided installation of wind- and solar-hybrid micro-grid seawater desalination plants across five outer islands, anchored by a 200-tonne-per-day facility and 300-kilowatt wind turbine on K. Kaashidhoo to supply clean drinking water and renewable power.. Instrument: Non-repayable PRC government grant. Contractor: Jiangsu Fenghai New Energy Seawater Desalination Development Co. Ltd. Constructed across the Solih and Muizzu administrations; inaugurated on 12 March 2024. - Agriculture & Climate Resilience: Hanimaadhoo Coconut Pest Center and Noonu Atoll LAVA Project: Two agricultural technical-assistance initiatives completed or launched in 2026: (1) the China-aid Coconut Tree Pest Control Assistance Project, which opened a Natural Enemy (Parasitoid) Breeding Center on HDh. Hanimaadhoo in August 2026 and trained over 500 agricultural personnel to combat the coconut hispine beetle (*Brontispa longissima*); and (2) the Low-Carbon Atoll Value Chains for Climate-Resilient Agriculture (LAVA) project in Noonu Atoll (Manadhoo, Magudhoo, Kudafari, and Kendhikulhudhoo), implemented jointly through China's Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund and UNDP.. Instrument: Non-repayable technical grants and multilateral South-South Cooperation Fund (Muizzu administration). Partners: Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, CATAS, and UNDP Maldives. Status: Hanimaadhoo center delivered August 2026; LAVA active October 2026. - Public Administration & Cultural Infrastructure: National Museum and Outer-Island Council Buildings: China funded and built the National Museum and Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Malé under Gayoom-era grant programmes. On 22 May 2025, China and the Maldives signed an Exchange Letter under the Muizzu administration for the feasibility study to construct 50 local council buildings across outer islands using prefabricated technology.. Instrument: Non-repayable PRC government grants. Status: National Museum delivered; 50 outer-island council buildings feasibility study signed May 2025. - Domestically Financed SOE EPC Housing: Hulhumalé Phase II 2,414 Subsidized Housing Units (2026–2028): In March 2026, two new subsidized housing complexes broke ground in Hulhumalé Phase II under the Muizzu administration's 'Boahiyavahikan Enmenah' housing policy: a 1,224-unit project started on 21 March 2026 and a 1,190-unit project started on 30 March 2026. Unlike the 2010–2017 housing loans, these two contracts are commissioned and financed domestically by the Bank of Maldives (BML) while awarded to Chinese state-owned engineering contractors.. Instrument: Commercial EPC contracts financed by Bank of Maldives (BML). Contractors: China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC, 1,224 units) and Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG, 1,190 units). Status: Underway; completion scheduled for 2028. ## Concessions, security sensitivities, and policy controversies _Beyond roads and housing, Chinese engagement in the Maldives has generated sustained domestic and regional debate over 50-year island leases, trade asymmetry under the Free Trade Agreement, dual-use maritime research, and defence cooperation._ **Competing positions on Chinese debt, the Free Trade Agreement, and security ties** - Chinese Embassy & Muizzu Administration: - Kong Xianhua: Argues in signed commentary that the China–Maldives FTA moves bilateral ties 'from concessions to win-win' by granting zero-tariff access to 91.1% of Maldivian exports (including 296 seafood lines), boosting tourism and RMB trade settlement, while Beijing actively supports debt relief and non-repayable grant projects without political conditions.. Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives (2025–present) - Administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu: Brought the 2017 China–Maldives FTA into force on 1 January 2025, upgraded bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership in January 2024, and defended both the March 2024 gratis military assistance pact and the February 2024 port call of research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 as routine, peaceful bilateral cooperation.. Government of the Republic of Maldives (since November 2023) - MDP Opposition & Regional Security Analysts: - Mohamed Nasheed: Characterised the 2014–2018 borrowing spree under President Yameen as a sovereignty-eroding 'debt trap' totalling up to USD 3.1 billion when including state guarantees, criticised the 50-year lease of islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu at below-market prices, and opposed activating the 2017 Free Trade Agreement due to custom-revenue losses and an acute bilateral trade imbalance.. Former President of the Maldives and former Speaker of the People's Majlis - Indian & US Strategic Analysts and CSIS AMTI: Raised security concerns over the 2017–2019 Makunudhoo Joint Ocean Observation Station and the 2024 Indian Ocean survey deployment of Xiang Yang Hong 03 for potential dual-use submarine hydrography, while CSIS AMTI satellite analysis found that leased islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu and Kunaavashi showed commercial resort construction rather than military basing.. Regional defence observers and maritime researchers - Multilateral Fiscal Assessors (IMF & World Bank): - International Monetary Fund & World Bank: Assess the Maldives as remaining at 'high risk of external and overall debt distress', noting that China holds roughly 40–45% of external public and publicly guaranteed debt and urging urgent fiscal consolidation, expenditure rationalisation, and comprehensive debt restructuring ahead of 2026 external repayment peaks.. Article IV Missions (2024, 2026) and Maldives Development Update (2025) - Illustration of the 50-year tourist island concession horizon applied to Chinese-leased islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu (leased in December 2016 for USD 4 million) and Kunaavashi under the Maldives Tourism Act, compared against a theoretical lease that resets its 50-year clock upon sub-lease or equity transfer. Under a fixed 50-year concession, the island reverts to the Maldivian state in year 50 (2066 for Feydhoo Finolhu) regardless of intermediate corporate transfers; under a resetting transfer clause, transfers in years 15 and 35 would push reversion to year 85. Calculations by Good Morning Maldives (GMM). - Term: 50 years - 15: JV equity transfer - 35: Resort sub-lease **Major diplomatic, territorial, and security controversies** - Feydhoo Finolhu (50-year lease for USD 4 million) & 2015 Freehold Land Amendment: In July 2015, the People's Majlis amended the Constitution under President Yameen to permit foreign ownership of land if the buyer reclaimed at least 70% of the area and invested over USD 1 billion—a measure widely viewed in India and by the Maldivian opposition as tailored for Chinese reclamation projects before it was repealed under President Solih in 2019. No freehold transfers occurred, but at least four islands were leased on 50-year tourist concessions to Chinese-backed firms. Most prominently, Feydhoo Finolhu—a 0.5-square-mile islet 3 nautical miles from Malé formerly used for police training—was leased in December 2016 to an undisclosed Chinese company for USD 4 million for 50 years and dredged to roughly triple its size. CSIS AMTI satellite imagery in 2020 confirmed the construction of overwater resort villas rather than military infrastructure. - Scrapped Makunudhoo Joint Ocean Observation Station (2017–2019): In 2017, China's State Oceanic Administration and the Yameen administration finalised a protocol to construct a Joint Ocean Observation Station on Makunudhoo, the westernmost atoll of the Maldives overlooking major Indian Ocean shipping lanes. Indian security officials and the Maldivian opposition warned that the facility's hydrological and acoustic arrays could serve dual-use People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) submarine-tracking functions. Following the change of government in Malé, the Solih administration announced in June 2019 that the station would not proceed. - Port Call of Chinese Research Vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 (February 2024): On 22 February 2024, the 4,500-tonne Chinese research vessel *Xiang Yang Hong 03*, operated by China's Ministry of Natural Resources, docked at Thilafushi/Malé after spending a month surveying the southern Indian Ocean just outside the Exclusive Economic Zones of India, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. The port call came shortly after Sri Lanka imposed a one-year moratorium on foreign research ships following Indian and US protests that such vessels map thermoclines and seabed topography for submarine operations. Malé's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the ship would conduct no marine research inside Maldivian waters and was calling solely for crew rotation and replenishment. - March 2024 Bilateral Military Assistance Pact: On 4–5 March 2024—weeks after the Muizzu administration set a May 2024 deadline for the withdrawal of roughly 80 Indian military personnel operating medical-evacuation aircraft in the Maldives—Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon and Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the PRC Office for International Military Cooperation, signed a bilateral agreement on China's provision of gratis (free) non-lethal military assistance and training to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). - China–Maldives Free Trade Agreement (2017 Signing vs. 2025 Activation): Originally rushed through parliament in late 2017 under President Yameen and signed in December 2017, the nearly 1,000-page China–Maldives Free Trade Agreement was frozen by the Solih administration (2018–2023) over concerns that removing import duties on Chinese goods would erode customs revenues while Maldivian fish exports remained small relative to Chinese imports. Activated on 1 January 2025 under President Muizzu, the agreement eliminates tariffs on 91.1% of Maldivian export lines (296 seafood categories) and 70.3% of Chinese imports, paired in September 2025 with direct CNY/RMB settlement accounts at the Bank of Maldives. ## Interactive map of Chinese projects, concessions, and mission sites _Filter by project status (Delivered, Underway, Agreed, Cancelled, Disputed) or zoom to Greater Malé, the Northern Atolls, or the Southern Atolls; click any pin or row to inspect the project record._ ## Chronology of diplomatic, financial, and strategic milestones _Scroll sideways or jump directly to any year from 1972 to 2026 to inspect treaties, presidential summits, sovereign loan commitments, infrastructure handovers, debt suspensions, and security episodes._ ## Ambassador and documented counterparts _Interactive counterpart network with Ambassador Kong Xianhua at the centre, grouped by Maldivian executive/defence, ministerial infrastructure/trade, and financial/multilateral counterparts._ ## Ambassadors and mission leadership timeline _Resident Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and senior mission leadership of the People's Republic of China in Malé since November 2011._ ## Timeline - 1972-10-14: China and the Maldives establish diplomatic relations (Nasir administration). The People's Republic of China and the Republic of Maldives sign the Joint Communiqué establishing ambassadorial-level diplomatic relations, initially conducted via concurrent accreditation from the Chinese Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. - 2010: China Eximbank signs first sovereign housing loan for Hulhumalé (Nasheed administration). The Export-Import Bank of China extends its first concessional loan to the Government of the Maldives under President Mohamed Nasheed to finance 1,000 social housing units in Hulhumalé Phase I constructed by CMEC. - 2011-11-08: China opens resident embassy in Malé under Ambassador Yu Hongyao. Beijing opens its permanent resident diplomatic mission in Henveiru, Malé during the Nasheed administration, appointing Yu Hongyao as the first resident Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives. - September 2012: Phase II outer-island housing loan signed for 1,500 units (Waheed administration). Under President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, the Maldives signs a China Eximbank concessional loan for 1,500 social housing units across nine southern islands in five atolls, built by CMEC. - 2014-09-15: President Xi Jinping makes historic state visit to Malé (Yameen administration). President Xi Jinping visits Malé from 14 to 16 September 2014—the first visit by a Chinese head of state—signing a Joint Press Communiqué with President Abdulla Yameen, the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road MoU, and framework agreements for the Sinamalé Bridge, Velana International Airport expansion, and Laamu Link Road. - December 2015: China Eximbank approves USD 373 million concessional loan for Velana International Airport. The Export-Import Bank of China signs a USD 373 million concessional loan facility with the Yameen administration to finance the new 3,400-metre code-4F runway, fuel farm, and cargo terminal built by Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG). - 2016-10-10: Completion of the 14.9 km China-aid Laamu Link Road. The grant-funded highway connecting Fonadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Maandhoo, and Gan in Laamu Atoll is completed and handed over to the Maldivian government. - December 2016: 50-year lease of Feydhoo Finolhu islet for USD 4 million. The Yameen administration leases Feydhoo Finolhu, an islet 3 nautical miles from Malé, for 50 years to a Chinese company for USD 4 million. - December 2017: Signing of the China–Maldives Free Trade Agreement and Hiyaa 7,000-unit housing loan. During President Yameen's state visit to Beijing, the two governments sign the bilateral Free Trade Agreement and a protocol for a Joint Ocean Observation Station on Makunudhoo, alongside the USD 437 million ICBC sovereign-guaranteed commercial loan for the 7,000-unit Hiyaa housing project. - 2018-08-30: Inauguration of the USD 200 million China–Maldives Friendship Bridge (Sinamalé Bridge). The 2.0-kilometre cross-sea bridge connecting Malé, Hulhulé airport island, and Hulhumalé opens to traffic, funded by a USD 116 million Chinese grant, a USD 72 million China Eximbank loan, and USD 12 million from the Maldivian state budget. - June 2019: Solih administration scraps the Makunudhoo Joint Ocean Observation Station. Following the November 2018 election of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the Maldivian government announces that the 2017 protocol with China's State Oceanic Administration to build an ocean observation station on Makunudhoo will not proceed. - 2020-06-23: Beijing grants partial debt service suspension under G20 DSSI. During the COVID-19 tourism shutdown, China agrees with the Solih administration to temporarily suspend debt service on roughly USD 600 million in direct sovereign loans out of USD 1.4–1.5 billion in total official and guaranteed Chinese credit. - 2022-10-06: Inauguration of the new 3,400-metre code-4F runway at Velana International Airport. Velana International Airport commissions its BUCG-built code-4F runway and 45,000-tonne fuel farm, doubling peak hourly aircraft movement capacity. - 2024-01-11: State visit to Beijing elevates ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership (Muizzu administration). President Dr Mohamed Muizzu visits China from 8 to 12 January 2024; the two governments elevate bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and exchange 20 agreements covering grant aid, Belt and Road cooperation, disaster management, and the digital and blue economies. - 2024-02-22: Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03 docks at Malé; defence assistance pact signed in March. Survey ship Xiang Yang Hong 03 moors near Malé for replenishment on 22 February 2024 after a month in the Indian Ocean. On 4–5 March 2024, Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon signs a gratis non-lethal military assistance agreement with Major General Zhang Baoqun, followed on 12 March 2024 by the inauguration of the five-island micro-grid seawater desalination project. - 2025-01-01: China–Maldives Free Trade Agreement enters into force. The bilateral FTA takes effect on 1 January 2025, eliminating tariffs on 91.1% of Maldivian export lines (296 seafood categories) and 70.3% of Chinese imports. - 2025-04-26: Ambassador Kong Xianhua arrives in Malé; CNY accounts and road redevelopment signed. Kong Xianhua assumes office as the fifth resident Chinese Ambassador on 26 April 2025. Subsequently, an Exchange Letter for 50 outer-island council buildings is signed on 22 May 2025, Bank of Maldives launches CNY accounts and cross-border RMB settlement on 22 September 2025, and Letters of Exchange for the Malé–Villimalé road redevelopment grant are signed on 23 October 2025. - 2026-01-19: Implementation agreement signed for the 112-bed China–Maldives Friendship Hospital in Villimalé. Embassy Counsellor Zhang Xu and Minister Abdulla Muththalib sign the implementation agreement for the grant-aided 112-bed hospital on Villimalé, followed in March 2026 by groundbreakings for 2,414 BML-financed housing units in Hulhumalé Phase II by CMEC and BUCG. - 2026-10-19: Agricultural pest-control center on Hanimaadhoo and LAVA climate project in Noonu Atoll. Following the 9 August 2026 opening of the China-aid coconut pest parasitoid rearing center on HDh. Hanimaadhoo and September 2026 tourism figures reaching 280,000 Chinese visitors, Ambassador Kong Xianhua, Minister Ahmed Shiyam, and UN officials inspect the Low-Carbon Atoll Value Chains for Climate-Resilient Agriculture (LAVA) project in Noonu Atoll on 19 October 2026. ## Key people - [Kong Xianhua](https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/kong-xianhua): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (5th Resident Ambassador) (2025-04-26) - [Zhang Xu](): Counsellor and Chargé d'Affaires ad interim (2025-01-01) - [Wang Lixin](https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/wang-lixin): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (4th Resident Ambassador) (2021-09-06 to 2024-12-10) - [Zhang Lizhong](https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/zhang-lizhong): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (3rd Resident Ambassador) (2017-08-29 to 2021-04-07) - [Wang Fukang](https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/wang-fukang): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (2nd Resident Ambassador) (2013-12-30 to 2017-08-10) - [Yu Hongyao](https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/yu-hongyao): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (1st Resident Ambassador) (2011-10-19 to 2013-11-07) ## Footprint - China–Maldives Friendship Bridge (Sinamalé Bridge), Maldives (Greater Malé): delivered. 2.0 km cross-sea bridge connecting Malé, Hulhulé, and Hulhumalé. Opened 30 August 2018 under the Yameen administration. Cost: USD 200 million (USD 116m Chinese grant, USD 72m China Eximbank loan, USD 12m Maldivian budget). - Velana International Airport Code-4F Runway, Fuel Farm & Cargo Terminal, Maldives (Hulhulé): delivered. 3,400m x 60m code-4F runway on 62 ha of reclaimed land, 45,000-tonne fuel farm, and cargo terminal complex. Financed by a USD 373 million China Eximbank concessional loan (2015); runway inaugurated 6 October 2022. - Hulhumalé Phase II Social & Subsidized Housing (Hiyaa 7,000 Units & 2026 BML 2,414 Units), Maldives (Hulhumalé): underway. Site of the 16-tower, 7,000-unit Hiyaa social housing project (delivered 2020–2021 via a USD 437m ICBC sovereign-guaranteed loan to HDC built by CSCEC), plus 2,414 Bank of Maldives-commissioned subsidized housing units by CMEC (1,224) and BUCG (1,190) that broke ground in March 2026 for completion in 2028. - China–Maldives Friendship Hospital (112 Beds) & Malé–Villimalé Road Redevelopment, Maldives (Villimalé): agreed. Grant-aided 112-bed, 12,890 sq m tertiary hospital in Villimalé (implementation agreement signed 19 January 2026; bidding stage September 2026) and Letters of Exchange signed 23 October 2025 for Malé and Villimalé road and drainage redevelopment. - Feydhoo Finolhu 50-Year Island Lease Concession, Maldives (Kaafu Atoll): delivered. Islet 3 nautical miles northwest of Malé, formerly used for police training, leased in December 2016 under the Yameen administration to an undisclosed Chinese company for USD 4 million for 50 years. Reclaimed and expanded to ~140,000 sq m for commercial resort development. - Kunaavashi Island 50-Year Resort Lease, Maldives (Vaavu Atoll): delivered. Island 35 nautical miles south of Malé leased on a 50-year resort concession to CJL Investment, a joint venture between Guangdong Beta Oceans and a Maldivian partner; expanded via land reclamation into a 71-villa tourist resort. - Fahala Island Resort & Airport Proposal (Dormant Concession), Maldives (Thaa Atoll): disputed. Uninhabited sandbar in Thaa Atoll reportedly allocated in 2015 to China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) for a resort and domestic airport proposal; CSIS AMTI satellite imagery confirmed no dredging or construction took place. - Makunudhoo Joint Ocean Observation Station (Scrapped), Maldives (Haa Dhaalu Atoll): cancelled. Proposed Joint Ocean Observation Station on the Maldives' westernmost atoll agreed with China's State Oceanic Administration in 2017; scrapped by the Solih administration in June 2019 amid regional security concerns over dual-use submarine monitoring. - Kaashidhoo & Five-Island Wind-Solar Micro-Grid Seawater Desalination Plants, Maldives (Kaafu Atoll): delivered. Flagship site of the China-aided five-island micro-grid seawater desalination project, featuring a 200-tonne/day desalination plant powered by a 300 kW wind turbine and solar array. Inaugurated 12 March 2024. - Hanimaadhoo Coconut Pest Control & Natural Enemy Breeding Center, Maldives (Haa Dhaalu Atoll): delivered. Grant-aided biological pest-control laboratory and parasitoid rearing centre opened on 9 August 2026 to combat the invasive coconut hispine beetle across Maldivian islands. - Noonu Atoll Low-Carbon Climate-Resilient Agriculture (LAVA) Project, Maldives (Noonu Atoll): underway. South-South Cooperation Fund and UNDP climate-resilient agriculture project across Manadhoo, Magudhoo, Kudafari, and Kendhikulhudhoo in Noonu Atoll; joint ministerial and embassy field inspection conducted 19 October 2026. - Laamu Atoll Link Road (Fonadhoo–Gan), Maldives (Laamu Atoll): delivered. 14.9-kilometre China-aid highway linking Fonadhoo, Kadhdhoo, Maandhoo, and Gan in Laamu Atoll. Unveiled during President Xi Jinping's September 2014 state visit and handed over on 10 October 2016. - Addu & Southern Atolls Phase II Social Housing (1,500 Units), Maldives (Addu Atoll): delivered. Southern hub of the 1,500-unit Phase II outer-island housing programme financed by China Eximbank under the Waheed administration and built by CMEC across nine islands in five atolls, including 264 apartments in Hithadhoo and 48 in Hulhumeedhoo. ## Open questions - What are the exact maturity extensions, interest-rate terms, and principal rescheduling figures under the bilateral debt-relief and refinancing arrangements referenced by Ambassador Kong Xianhua in September 2026? - What is the total non-repayable grant ceiling in Chinese yuan (RMB) or US dollars committed under the January 2024 Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation covering the 112-bed Villimalé hospital, the Malé–Villimalé road redevelopment, and the 50 outer-island council buildings? - Who are the ultimate beneficial owners of the corporate entity that acquired the 50-year lease on Feydhoo Finolhu in December 2016 for USD 4 million? - What specific equipment, training syllabi, and delivery schedules are included under the March 2024 bilateral agreement on China's provision of gratis non-lethal military assistance to the Maldives National Defence Force? ## Sources - [Export Import Bank of China — International Cooperation Partner Profile](https://www.finance.gov.mv/ministry/international-cooperation/export-import-bank-of-china). Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises (Maldives), 23 May 2020 - [China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Portal and Text](https://trade.gov.mv/en/fta-china-maldives/). Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (Maldives), Viewed 19 October 2026 - [Maldives and China sign Agreement on Development Cooperation](https://foreign.gov.mv/index.php/en/media-center/news/maldives-and-china-sign-agreement-on-development-cooperation). Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Maldives), Viewed 19 October 2026 - [Key agreements exchanged between the Maldives and China](https://presidency.gov.mv/Press/Article/29600). The President's Office (Maldives), 10 January 2024 - [Maldives: 2024 Article IV Consultation—Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Maldives](https://www.elibrary.imf.org/view/journals/002/2024/106/article-A003-en.xml). International Monetary Fund (IMF), May 2024 - [IMF Staff Completes 2026 Article IV Mission to Maldives (Press Release No. 26/208)](https://www.imf.org/en/news/articles/2026/06/16/pr-26208-maldives-imf-staff-completes-2026-article-iv-mission). International Monetary Fund (IMF), 16 June 2026 - [Maldives Development Update — October 2025](https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/099846210302541970/pdf/IDU-f29ea907-6c13-451b-a6a3-f951f927b5a8.pdf). World Bank, October 2025 - [Maldives: Joint World Bank-IMF Debt Sustainability Analysis](https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/293831592861168276/pdf/Maldives-Joint-World-Bank-IMF-Debt-Sustainability-Analysis.pdf). World Bank and International Monetary Fund, June 2020 - [Chinese Investment in the Maldives: Appraising the String of Pearls](https://amti.csis.org/chinese-investment-in-the-maldives-appraising-the-string-of-pearls/). Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) — Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, 4 September 2020 - [China, Maldives upgrade ties with infrastructure deals in pivot from India](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/11/china-maldives-upgrade-ties-with-infrastructure-deals-in-pivot-from-india). Al Jazeera, 11 January 2024 - [With Chinese loans looming, Maldives gets IMF warning over 'debt distress'](https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3262518/chinese-loans-looming-maldives-gets-imf-warning-over-debt-distress). South China Morning Post, 14 May 2024 - [Chinese research ship set to dock at Maldives port amid India's security concerns](https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3252805/chinese-research-ship-set-dock-maldives-port-amid-indias-security-concerns). South China Morning Post, 22 February 2024 - [After giving India's troops their marching orders, Maldives signs defence deal with China](https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3254227/after-giving-indias-troops-their-marching-orders-maldives-signs-defence-deal-china). South China Morning Post, 5 March 2024 - [Chinese research ship moors near Maldives after spending a month in Indian Ocean](https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/chinese-research-ship-moors-near-maldives-after-spending-a-month-in-indian-ocean/article67874951.ece). The Hindu, 22 February 2024 - [As Indian troops pull out, Maldives signs 'defence pact' with China](https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/as-indian-troops-pull-out-maldives-signs-defence-pact-with-china/article67915941.ece). The Hindu, 5 March 2024 - [Maldives gets IMF debt warning as more Chinese loans loom](https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/maldives-gets-imf-debt-warning-as-more-chinese-loans-loom/article68171903.ece). The Hindu, 15 May 2024 - [Chinese debt casts shadow over Maldives economy](https://www.livemint.com/news/world/chinese-debt-casts-shadow-over-maldives-economy-11600391729162.html). Mint (Livemint), 18 September 2020 - [Maldives pledges full support for China's new Silk Road](https://edition.mv/maldives_foreign_policy/1593). The Edition, 13 July 2016 - [China to suspend debt repayment for four years: President Solih](https://edition.mv/news/17454). The Edition, 23 June 2020 - [Sinamale Bridge: USD 200 million project cost breakdown](https://edition.mv/news/43821). The Edition, 30 August 2018 - [China-Maldives FTA comes into effect](https://en02.sun.mv/94219). Sun Online, 1 January 2025 - [China-funded hospital and road projects to commence early next year: Chinese Ambassador](https://english.sun.mv/108980). Sun Online, 28 September 2026 - [Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Maldives](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zmgx/zywx/201401/t20140117_1784946.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 14 October 1972 - [Contact Us — Chancery and Consular Section Details](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgxx/lxwm/201401/t20140117_1784764.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 17 January 2014 - [Biography of H.E. Ambassador Kong Xianhua](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgxx/dsjl/202109/t20210906_8922378.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 26 April 2025 - [Joint Press Communiqué between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Maldives (Malé, 15 September 2014)](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zmgx/zywx/202602/t20260201_11848756.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 15 September 2014 - [Joint Press Communiqué between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Maldives (Beijing, 11 January 2024)](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zmgx/zywx/202602/t20260201_11848754.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 11 January 2024 - [Story Telling on 50 Years of China-Maldives Diplomatic Ties — The Inauguration Ceremony of the New Runway of Velana International Airport](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zt/zmjj50zngsh/202210/t20221012_10782292.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 12 October 2022 - [Story Telling on 50 Years of China-Maldives Diplomatic Ties — The Laamu Link Road Project](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zt/zmjj50zngsh/202210/t20221011_10781013.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 11 October 2022 - [Story Telling on 50 Years of China-Maldives Diplomatic Ties — The Housing Projects in Addu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zt/zmjj50zngsh/202212/t20221218_10991796.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 18 December 2022 - [Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Wang Lixin at the Inauguration Ceremony of China Aided Project of Micro-Grid Seawater Desalination Plants in Maldives](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202403/t20240312_11259479.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 12 March 2024 - [Ambassador Kong Xianhua Publishes Signed Article 'From Concessions to Win-Win: China-Maldives FTA Boosts Maldives' Growth'](https://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgsd/202507/t20250724_11676566.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 24 July 2025 - [Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua attended Launch Ceremony of CNY Account Services at Bank of Maldives](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202509/t20250922_11713316.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 22 September 2025 - [Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua and Minister Abdulla Muththalib signed Letters of Exchange on the China-aid Road Redevelopment Project](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202510/t20251023_11739537.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 23 October 2025 - [China and Maldives signed the implementation agreement for the China-Maldives Friendship Hospital project](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202601/t20260119_11815315.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 19 January 2026 - [Groundbreaking Ceremonies for 1,224 and 1,190 Subsidized Housing Units in Hulhumalé Phase II](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202603/t20260331_11884422.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 31 March 2026 - [Closing Ceremony of Coconut Tree Pest Control Assistance Project and Opening of Parasitoid Rearing Center on Hanimaadhoo Island](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202608/t20260809_12000787.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 9 August 2026 - [Remarks by Ambassador Kong Xianhua at the Reception Celebrating the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the PRC](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/sgsd/202609/t20260928_12032640.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 28 September 2026 - [Field Visit for Low-Carbon Atoll Value Chains for Climate-Resilient Agriculture (LAVA) in Noonu Atoll](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202610/t20261019_12042537.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 19 October 2026 - [Exchange Letter of Feasibility Study on the Development of Council Buildings in the Outer Islands Project](http://mv.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/mytz/202505/t20250522_11630830.htm). Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Maldives, 22 May 2025 --- Canonical URL: https://www.goodmorningmaldives.com/entities/embassy-of-china Source: Good Morning Maldives. Cite the canonical URL when quoting.